Gay Massage Exchanges: Everything You Need to Know

July 18, 2017

4 minute read

When most guys think of sensual or erotic massage, they can’t help but joke about happy endings. There’s a general consensus that this category of massage is strictly sexual, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Tim, a member of the Male Healthy Touch Club, shared how his gay massage exchange experience enhanced his life. “I had many fears pursuing massage exchange with men, chief amongst them, how I look and would other men accept me?” he explained in a YouTube video. “No regard was made as to looks. It thus becomes mutually very beneficial for all involved.” More than a good time, Tim found relaxation and body positivity during his massage exchange. It’s these experiences that are the norm.

What Is Gay Massage Exchange?

Simply put, gay massage exchange involves sensual massage between two men. This can take place with your partner or you can find other men in your area who are willing to work with you (more on this later). There isn’t one primary goal for massage exchange. From spiritual connection to relieving the stress of a long day, it serves several purposes.

Many masseuses use massage exchange as a way to receive free services and hone their craft. Writer Denis Larsen traveled to Mexico for a massage exchange with a traditional Mayan massage therapist. The motivation behind the exchange was education. Larsen wanted to experience the intensity of this ancient technique. And likewise, he wanted to share Western methods with the Mayan therapist. “Because I could feel him loosening the muscles, stretching the tendons and breaking up adhesions that had been there for more than two years, I could feel my foot move more freely than it had for two years,” he wrote.

However, most gay massage exchange is not as focused on learning technique. These exchanges center around pleasure and acceptance, allowing men to feel comfortable and uninhibited in safe spaces.

What Happens During a Massage Exchange?

Odds are, your massage exchange will take place through a seminar or massage community. You’ll need to follow a set of rules, and those rules will vary from group to group. But, for the most part, you can expect an experience like the following.

Depending on the formality of your group, you might bring a partner or you’ll search through a database of fellow massage lovers. Some of the men will be amateurs while others will be more experienced in bodywork. However, there’s no need to fret about your skill level. If you’ve only given a massage or two in the past, it’s not a big deal. This exchange is more about the other benefits.

Next, you’ll need to specify the type of exchange you’re interested in. There are several options. You can keep the work therapeutic and opt for aggressive or platonic bodywork. Or you could take things in a spiritual direction and focus on energy healing. Of course, you can move into more sensual territory with tantric massage, erotic massage, and sacred touch. Some groups even offer cuddling. Whatever you desire or feel most comfortable with, you can find it in gay massage exchange.

You’ll meet with your massage partner in a designated space, either in one of your homes or a space designated by your group. Both of you will disrobe and perform the selected massage one at a time.

Why Is Gay Massage Exchange Important?

At first glance, it might be difficult to understand the difference between a hookup and gay massage exchange. But, a closer look reveals they’re wildly different. Gay massage exchange is about connection, and the pleasure you experience during the exchange isn’t dependent on orgasm. Additionally, massage exchange is a welcoming, affirming place where men of all physiques can engage in various types of nude touch without feeling self-conscious about their bodies. Furthermore, it offers a safe space for men to engage in spiritual, sensual, and sexual activity without worrying about any other factors.

Where Can I Find Gay Massage Exchange Resources?

The best way to find gay massage exchange groups in your area is through Meetup. The site is home to 133 massage exchange-based groups with over 54,000 members. It’s by far the most comprehensive resource on the web. However, if you live in a large city, you might have success finding local groups independent of Meetup. But be prepared for a deep Google search.

Gay massage exchange is one of the best and safest ways for men to experience relaxation and pleasure. And through these exchanges, the perception of sensual massage is changing for the better.